Church bells began ringing at midnight on the day Canada was born – July 1, 1867. Jubilant celebrations swept across Nova Scotia, Quebec, Ontario and New Brunswick, at the pronouncement of Queen Victoria declaring the uniting of the colonies.

And now nearly a century and a half later, we still celebrate – not only Canada’s birth, but her hundred and forty-five year history. We celebrate our achievements as a country. We reflect on how lucky we are to live in this blessed land, and together as Canadians, wherever we live, we show our pride.

This year we also commemorate the bicentennial of the War of 1812. Across Canada, our Conservative government is supporting hundreds of events and re-enactments of the war that confirmed Canada’s destiny as an independent nation. We’re also investing in the restoration and preservation of monuments and historic sites related to that war. Rather than placing the emphasis on the victory of one side over another, these events and sites encourage us all to reflect on the contributions our ancestors made to preserve this great nation of ours.

Her Majesty’s Diamond Jubilee provides another notable reason to celebrate in 2012.  A symbol of continuity and perseverance, Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II has now served Canada for an astounding six decades—nearly as long as Queen Victoria herself. Recently the Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall marked this Jubilee year with a Royal Tour of Canada, preceded by the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge (William and Kate) in 2011, and Her Majesty and the Duke of Edinburgh in 2010.

In honour of the Diamond Jubilee, and in the spirit of our Queen’s long and dedicated service to others, I’d like to remind constituents that our government is offering Canadians an opportunity to nominate deserving individuals for the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Medal. This medal is not intended for those who have already achieved notability, but for ordinary Canadians whose selfless contributions make or have made a striking difference within their spheres of influence. If you know someone in the Yorkton-Melville constituency who you think deserves this type of recognition, please contact my office at 1-800-667-6606 to ask for more information. I will accept two further intakes of nominations with deadlines of September 1st and December 1st .

Around this time, school books are closing for many of Canada’s students. Across the land families are preparing to enjoy summer. Whether you’re celebrating Canada’s 145th birthday, visiting an 1812 memorial, considering who you can nominate for the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee medal, or simply enjoying our fine land, I wish you a very, very, enjoyable summer season – and a joyous upcoming Canada Day!

God keep our land, and God save our Queen.

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The audio version of Garry's June 25, 2012 op-ed column can be heard by clicking here